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Srinagar, April 2 – Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a significant increase in cancer cases over the past five years, with over 67,000 cases reported between 2018 and 2024. The alarming trend was discussed in the ongoing Rajya Sabha session.
Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, disclosed that the Union Territory recorded 67,037 cancer cases during this period. The numbers have shown a steady rise annually, with 12,726 cases in 2020, 13,060 in 2021, 13,395 in 2022, 13,744 in 2023, and 14,112 cases in 2024.
In response, the government has enhanced cancer care facilities nationwide, establishing 19 State Cancer Institutes (SCIs) and 20 Tertiary Cancer Care Centres (TCCCs) to provide advanced treatment. Additionally, cancer treatment facilities have been incorporated into all 22 new AIIMS hospitals, equipped with medical, surgical, and diagnostic services.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) continues to support cancer research, focusing on improved diagnostics, treatment strategies, and affordable therapies.
Jammu and Kashmir has also expanded its cancer care infrastructure, featuring two State Cancer Institutes, two Tertiary Cancer Care Centres, 20 Day Care Centres, and 11 District Hospitals offering Palliative Care services.
Cervical cancer cases in the region have shown a consistent rise, with recorded cases increasing from 612 in 2019 to 684 in 2023.
To address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases, including cancer, the government has allocated Rs 24 crore under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) in Jammu and Kashmir for three years under the National Health Mission (NHM).
The rising cancer trend highlights the need for enhanced preventive measures, improved treatment facilities, and increased public awareness to ensure timely diagnosis and care.
